The recent freeze of SNAP benefits has left families across Contra Costa County unsure about where their next meal will come from. Beginning November 1, approximately 110,000 residents in the county lost access to SNAP (CalFresh) benefits, part of a nationwide program that supports millions of Americans.
White Pony Express mobilized weeks before the freeze, preparing for the worst. WPE’s volunteer-powered food recovery program is more crucial now than ever before.
Recently, news teams from several Bay Area networks visited WPE’s Concord location to spotlight the county-wide food drive launched on October 30 that runs through November. The food drive is an impactful way for the community to help during this food crisis.
The drive is focused on protein-rich and shelf-stable foods as well as monetary donations, which will be used to secure more healthy food and an expansion of services.
CEO Eve Birge points to the critical importance of collective action and community investment (‘all of us taking care of all of us!’) to ensure meals reach those in need this holiday season. She notes that demand for WPE’s services was already significant, and that since the shutdown and especially since late October, it has skyrocketed.
To meet this surge in need and sustain WPE’s ramped-up operations through the end of the year, White Pony Express is launching its year-end campaign — Food in Motion, Love in Action.
In times like these, our community’s strength and compassion shine brightest. Join WPE in its effort to deliver nutritious food (a vehicle for love!) to all of our hungry neighbors. Food must be recognized for what it is: a fundamental human right.
For a copy of the FOOD DRIVE FLIER click here.
See local coverage of WPE’s Fill the Gap Food Drive:
Watch the NBC Bay Area news clip here: Local organization food drive in response to SNAP cuts
Watch the Kron 4 video here: White Pony Express holds food drive in the East Bay
Read the article by Bay City News Network: Contra Costa nonprofit Launches County wide food drive in wake of Snap suspensions
Watch the ABC 7 news clip here: White Pony Express Launches Massive Food Drive
Read the East Bay Times Article here: Concord’s White Pony Boosts Anti-Hunger work amid SNAP freeze